Europe Archives - Page 27 of 27

September 17, 2012 by Arlene

Travel Bucket List: Europe’s Most Haunted

If you’re someone fascinated by the supernatural and you have the chance to visit haunted places in Europe, here’s a little guide to ensure you don’t miss out on your visit.

There are actually many reputedly haunted places all over Europe, but the most haunted places are usually in the British Isles. Let’s keep this list a little balanced though, so you’ll get to rack up some good mileage on your journey 😉

1. England – Perhaps the most haunted country on Earth

You can’t go wrong with a visit to London. The Tower of London is famous for ghost stories and hauntings.

Perhaps the most famous involves the two young princes, Edward and Richard. They were not even teens when they disappeared and presumed murdered. In 1674, two skeletons were found under a staircase and it’s presumed that they belonged to the two young princes. Their specters have not only been heard but seen as well.

Apparently, one of the victims of Jack the Ripper has been said to haunt the place where she was killed. There are Jack the Ripper tours which should not be missed.

Borley Rectory was well known as the most haunted place in England, but alas, it burned down in 1939.

2. The Haunted Leap Castle of Ireland

Leap Castle in County Offaly was built in the 15th century. One of the stories involves the O’Carroll family, of which one of the brothers was a priest. His brother took him by surprise while he was in the chapel and killed him with his sword.

There have been several reality television programs involving Leap Castle that you may have seen or heard about. The luck of the Irish just doesn’t hold water in this castle! It’s definitely one of the most haunted places in Europe.

3. The Catacombs of Paris

Do yourself a favor and skip this!

Yes, it’s pretty darn frightening and if you are claustrophobic, don’t even bother trying to see this! These endless tunnels run below the famous world capital. You will get lost, there’s no question about that. Perhaps you may not even make it out!

There are thousands of bones that litter the way, so much so that the place cannot help BUT be haunted. In fact, many scary images have actually been caught on tape and it’s truly considered one of the most haunted places in the world. If you’re not religious, you will be while you’re under ground. It’s so eerie you don’t stand a ghost of a chance.

4. Dragsholm Castle in Denmark

This castle is famous for three ghosts; the Grey Lady, the White Lady and James Hepburn, the 4th Earl of Bothwell.

The Grey Lady apparently returns to the castle every night. The White Lady was supposedly imprisoned by her own father in the castle walls. Years later in the 20th century, during some renovations, workers came across a skeleton wearing a white dress. The Earl of Bothwell, who was married to Mary, Queen of Scots, is said to ride on his horse in the courtyard. Not only has he been seen doing so, but horses hooves beating upon the cobbled courtyard have also been heard.

5. Babenhausen Barracks in Germany

This place is now a museum but it’s well-known for its hauntings. There have been many reports of apparitions of German soldiers in their World War 2 uniforms. Creepy footsteps are heard when nobody is thought to be there. Unexplained voices in the basement are often heard. Lights turn on and off by themselves. Legend says that a witch was burned at the stake in this town. Several German soldiers’ deaths have been directly attributed to her.

Though there are just too many haunted places in Europe to mention here, these are some places that, if you had the opportunity to explore and visit, (provided you can take it) you should not pass up the opportunity. Just don’t blame us if anything goes wrong!

September 6, 2012 by Arlene

5 Epic Train Journeys For The Avid Traveler

Most folks who travel frequently find using rail rather a boring and tiresome experience. In fact, most would rather catch the train only to and from work. The mere thought of doing roughly six hours or more on the rail is dreadful!

But, for that enthusiast who prefers the train, the thought of going for an epic train travel adventure releases a flood of endorphins, as such a journey means traveling through numerous cultures, landscapes and territories.

In this article we shall delve into some of the top epic train journeys to transverse the globe…

1. The Trans-Asian Express

The main aim of this journey is to relax and sooth you so forget that dinner suite at home. The train makes its way across Istanbul all the way to Tehran while you admire the gorgeous Turkish and Iranian scenery.

The train leaves the city of Istanbul on Wednesdays at 11 p.m. and arrives at the final destination in Iran taking an average seventy hours of adventure and excitement. For those boarding from Iran to Turkey, it leaves at 6.30 p.m. on Thursdays.

Along the way you are set to venture through the mystic Lake Van where you get the opportunity to take break aboard a ferry. To enjoy all these you need to pay EUR 40 inclusive of meals and taxes.

2. The Trans-Siberian Express

This one of the longest journey you may take by train as this colossal route will take you all the way from Russia to China. Currently it’s the longest railway on earth. On average, the entire journey takes roughly ten hours covering a distance of over 8,000 Kilometers of steel track.

The journey crosses over some of the most breath taking scenery in the Siberian territory engulfed with such majestic and inspiring landscapes. For those film enthusiasts you may be able to identify some of the sights which featured in some top-rated films.

3. The Southern Spirit

The best way to make your way through Australia is via the Ghan which is designed to deliver that magical experience of the mythical “heart of Oz”. The adventure goes from Adelaide to Darwin (or vice versa).

Boasting of both Gold and Platinum cabins, you are sure to be spoiled while on the rails, being guaranteed of class, luxury and comfort regardless of the class you settle on. Unlike most rail journeys which seem like a point to point affair, the Southern spirit is guaranteed to leave you with great memories to last you several lifetimes.

4. Pride of Africa

Contrary to the stereotyping known by most people, Africa has so many good things to offer. Being one of the last frontiers not crowded by sky scrapers and tarmac it is home to the Big 5 and the Maasai Mara.

The Pride of Africa snakes through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania. Enjoy the untamed wilderness while admiring the Victoria Falls.

5. The Canadian

For those who simply enjoy a blend of civilization and nature, this six hour trip will definitely leave you yearning for more. With the Canadian you need not worry that work will pile up in case you take a short break as with on-board Wi-Fi, you can have a virtual office on the go.

Enjoy the rocky landscape coupled with superlative and unmatched luxury. This is one epic journey you are guaranteed to always remember.

September 3, 2012 by Arlene

Travel Bucket List: Visit The 5 Newest Countries In The World

Every country has its own identity that makes it unique and being able to travel to these places and see all the attractions that they have to offer is an exciting experience that everyone should have once in their life.

Most of us are aware of the old historic countries that have been around for centuries. But what about the newer countries of the world? I’m here to suggest a challenge for the avid adventure traveler: Try to visit the five newest countries in the world. They are:

South Sudan
Kosovo
Serbia and Montenegro
East Timor
Palau

These five countries are all unique in their own way and a must-see for anyone’s traveling bucket list.

South Sudan – 2011

South Sudan is the world’s newest country and has been left with the most traditional culture unlike what you’ll see in many other countries around the world. South Sudan is a country for people who enjoy the beauty of nature because of the vast amount of tropical forests, caves, waterfalls, swamps and even the steamy savannah will leave you in awe.

This new country is filled with beauty, culture and a dark past of warfare that is exciting to learn about.

Kosovo – 2008

The country of Kosovo was established in 2008 and is surrounded by the countries of Albania, Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro. Since its establishment it has become a popular destination for many tourists who are looking to get away from the typical destinations and explore new places and a culture that stands out from the rest.

The three most popular destinations in Kosovo are Novo Brdo, Prizren, and Pristina. Each offers many activities that’ll keep you occupied during your stay.

Other than its natural beauty, Kosovo has many attractions that anyone will enjoy including the breathtaking Sharr Mountains, the Ethnographic Museum where you’ll be able to learn about the Albanian culture, and the Novo Brdo Castle which is believed to date back as early as the 12th century during the Serbian Empire.

Serbia and Montenegro – 2006

Serbia and Montenegro has many scenic wonders whether you’re looking to experience the spectacular scenery, visit historical monuments or just spend some time getting to know the locals and their culture. The Kalemegdan Citadel is one of the major attractions in the country and people from all over the world flock to see their stunning churches, tombs, Turkish baths and even a military museum to get a better understanding of this extraordinary country’s past. If you’re looking for a more serene environment, Lake Skadar won’t disappoint.

East Timor – 2002

East Timor is an island located between Indonesia and Australia and like many islands, you’re guaranteed to be treated to an abundance of beautiful beaches and a tropical environment that so many of us love.

The statue of Cristo Rei is one of the most famous attractions in East Timor and the views from the top of the mountain are outstanding. Beyond that, you can head off to the coast and enjoy diving with some of the most professional teams you’ll ever find.

Palau – 1994

For anyone who enjoys the beach and experiencing new and even unusual activities that you might not think of doing at any point in your life, Palau in the Western Pacific is the place for you.

Jellyfish Lake is an exciting yet scary attraction for many people but once you’re in the water swimming around with the millions of jellyfish, you’ll find the entire experience relaxing and beautiful.

…

Most of the above countries might be small but each of them has their own special characteristics that make them stand out from others that have been around for decades and even centuries. No matter where you turn, they all have unique attractions that make them great places to visit and each of them has something to offer for everyone.

August 23, 2012 by Arlene

5 Fun Adventures You Can Have in (Almost) Any City

Often, we travel to some countries or cities for the purpose of leisure or fun, but end up doing very little because we are not aware of the some of the travel adventures we could be having. Well, if you are such a person, then worry no more because this write up seeks to provide you with five fun travel adventures that you not only can have in any city, but will also guarantee that you enjoy yourself in that city.

These five fun travel adventures are as follows…

1) Climb to the roof of the tallest building

This is quite easy to do in some cities, as the tall buildings will often have observation decks for tourists. Just pay a small entry fee and you’re golden.

While that’s pretty fun, what can be even more of an adventure is to try get to the roof of a building that’s usually not open to tourists. I recommend just wandering nonchalantly up to the front desk within such a building and asking them if you can go up on the roof to look at the view. If possible, ask to speak directly with the person who has the authority to grant you permission. Don’t rely on someone else to do your persuading for you 😉

2) Go Geocaching

In essence, geocaching simply refers to a recreational activity that involves using GPS satellites or devices powered with GPS signals (such as phones and computers) to hide and seek some containers commonly known as caches or geocaches.

The practice of Geocaching is one of the many travel adventures popularly practiced globally with over five million geocachers available across the world. This activity is best practiced by a group of individuals.

3) Take a local dance class

Based on the various types of songs across the world, there are many types of dances today including salsa, ballet, tango and ballroom dancing, among many others.

As a result of these many dance types, almost every city across the world has some local dance class which can be joined by anybody willing to learn. You can take this opportunity as a challenge to learn as many dances as possible, while also keeping your body fit.

4) Organize a flash mob

A flash mob simply refers to a group of people who usually organize to briefly assemble in a particular place for the purpose of entertainment, pass on a message or just express something artistic. Organizing a flash mob is one of the travel adventures that is not only thrilling, but also gives you an opportunity to interact with different people from different cultures and sharpen our organization skills.

5) Try speed dating

In spite of having originated in Western countries, speed dating has grown to become a common practice in most cities around the world.

Essentially, speed dating involves men and women meeting in a particular place, talking for a short specified period of time then at the end of the duration of talking, these men and women decide on who they’d like to see again. Just like a flash mob, speed dating is a great way of meeting new people.

In conclusion, it is worth stating that the above travel adventures are easy, cost-effective and immensely fun-filled. So the next time you travel to a city and need some travel adventures, feel free to try any of them.